Example: How to do online serial number checks and upgrade notifications via sql and php

[madhatt]

Note: I do not by ANY mean call myself a pro, I learn this stuff from this and other forums. thanks for not beating me up to bad

Attached is a Filemaker 12 example database of how I validate serial numbers in my small by profitable runtime application. Due to how my software is provide I don't offer refunds but every now and then I need to do one so I needed the ability to deacivate a serial number remotely.

This script in a simple way helps me do that. Anytime a user tried to register the software it calls home and does 2 things.

• Validates the serial number for use via external php and mysql database, if no match or it's a deactivated serial number it errors out, if it matches then you good to go.
  
• keeps a log of all serial registrations attempts.
  

Also included in the example is a nifty way I found on the net to check for a program update.

Thanks all for the help along the way and a BIG thanks to Filemaker for allowing me to make an appication that has afforded me a lot of extra income over the years!!!

Online Serial Number Verification and software upgrade notification.fmp12.zip

[Lee Smith]

Automatic message

This topic has been moved from "The Presentation Layer → Advanced & Developer Features" to "Community Resources → Articles, Tips, Techniques & Solutions".

[JerrySalem]

Thanks for this tip. I wish I had this available when I was writing a vertical market solution :)

[madhatt]

I have updated the script to correct a few misc errors.

Online Serial Number Verification and software upgrade notification.fmp12.zip